The most pressing topic of the evening was the council’s discussion on the implementation of Narcan, a life-saving medication used to counteract opioid overdoses, in borough buildings. The dialogue followed a prior conversation between the mayor and a council member about the potential benefits of widespread availability of Narcan. Jessica Fernandez, the director of Recovery Support Services from Children’s Aid and Family Services, attended the meeting to provide insight into the initiative. Fernandez explained that many municipalities had successfully implemented Narcan in public areas, highlighting its effectiveness in saving lives. She detailed the training process, which includes opioid awareness education, proper administration of Narcan, and distribution of Narcan kits. The council showed a keen interest in collaborating with Fernandez to set up training sessions tailored for both staff and the general public.

The meeting also celebrated the accomplishments of the 11U and 14U Little League teams. Coaches and players were invited to the front to receive certificates recognizing their championship wins. One coach expressed pride in the players, stating, “They worked hard; they get better every month,” and encouraged them to continue their success. The ceremony underscored the community’s pride in its young athletes and their dedication.

In a segment focusing on the police department, several promotions and appointments were highlighted. Two Special Law Enforcement Officers (SLOs), Brian Johnson and Aaron Brennan, were sworn in to assist with traffic control and community events. The Chief of Police also introduced Officer Samantha Howard, who was sworn in as a full-time officer. Howard, who has a degree in criminal justice, began her career with New Milford on September 3 and will be attending the police academy soon. Her family was present during the oath-taking ceremony, adding a personal touch to the proceedings.

Further promotions within the police department included Detective Sam Jerice, who was elevated to the rank of Sergeant. The Chief recounted Jerice’s contributions to the department, particularly in training other officers in firearms and tactics, before Jerice took his oath with his family by his side. Additionally, Sergeant Brian Carino was promoted to Lieutenant, with the Chief praising Carino’s integrity and previous assignments within the department.

The council also made several appointments to various committees. Andrew T was appointed to Fire Company Number One, Judith Freemantle to the Board of Health, and Brett Thompson to the Public Events Committee. Each appointment was approved unanimously, with gratitude expressed to the appointees for their willingness to serve.

A significant proclamation was introduced, declaring October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The proclamation highlighted the impact of breast cancer, with over 360,000 women expected to be diagnosed and over 42,000 fatalities projected for 2024. The importance of regular screening and early detection was emphasized, and Mayor Michael Putrino formally proclaimed October 2024 as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, noting a personal connection to someone in the community.

The administrator’s report covered various engineering projects and community initiatives. Notably, the design for the volleyball court at Kennedy Field Sports Complex is expected to be finalized in the first week of October. Improvements to Hard Castle Pond depend on the outcome of a grant application to the Bergen County Open Space. An application for road resurfacing, including Marian, Ross, and Monroe, is pending a decision. The borough signed a contract for electric vehicle charging stations at Borough Hall, Knightsfield, and the library, with preliminary work set to begin within the next six months. Additionally, the borough received a $7,000 grant from the Bergen County Community Development Block Grant to convert two public restrooms at Borough Hall to make them ADA accessible.

The New Milford Environmental and Energy Commission secured a $10,000 Community Energy Planning Grant from the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities to develop a community energy plan. A flu vaccine clinic is scheduled for Thursday, October 3 at the New Milford Senior Center, with pre-registration preferred but walk-ins welcome. The next council meeting will be a work session on October 16, due to the observance of Columbus Day on the 14th. The administrator also noted the successful paving on Madison Avenue, including the installation of new bus monitoring systems to reduce idling.

Council committee reports highlighted various community events and initiatives. Council members expressed enthusiasm for the New Milford High School sports teams, particularly the undefeated football team, and welcomed the new superintendent, Peter Gaso, for his approachable demeanor and knowledge.